US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin highlighted the strong growth of US-India partnership Reaffirming America’s commitment to strengthening Global security alliances.
Speaking after the Change of Command programme US Southern Command At Doral, Austin pointed to significant diplomatic progress and security efforts, which have expanded U.S. ties in a variety of areas.
“Our relationship with India is more expansive than ever,” Austin said. He also highlighted similar collaborative efforts with the Philippines and Japan.
Reflecting on his 4-year tenure, Austin noted the Department of Defense’s accomplishments, saying, “It was an honor to celebrate the men and women of this command and thank them for strengthening partnerships and addressing security challenges in our hemisphere.”
Austin posted on social media after the ceremony, sharing his praise for the change in leadership of the U.S. Southern Command from Gen. Laura Richardson to Admiral John Halsey.
Amid global challenges, Austin pointed to the Pentagon’s balanced focus on Europe, the Middle East and the Indo-Pacific. Despite continued security assistance for Ukraine and support for Israel’s territorial defense, he affirmed that the US remains committed to Indo-Pacific stability.
“We’ve strengthened NATO. We’ve pulled NATO together. We’ve focused 50 countries on providing security assistance to Ukraine,” Austin added, noting the Defense Department assembled the NATO and Ukraine Defense Liaison Group, a coalition of more than 50. Nations to support Ukraine after Russia’s 2022 invasion.
Austin also addressed humanitarian concerns in Gaza, highlighting what the US sees as a priority for relief efforts. He thanked Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Galant for his support, revealing that he had discussed the matter. “Today, when I spoke to (Gallant) for the last time in his position, I reiterated how important (the humanitarian issue) is and he thanked him for helping us move things forward,” Austin said.
As he nears the end of his term, Austin expressed confidence in the military’s professionalism and resilience amid the transition to a new administration in 2025. Although he declined to speculate on how the new commander-in-chief might affect military operations, Austin reiterated his belief. The country’s military leadership said, “These senior leaders will remain focused on defending this country and succeeding through teamwork. I have 100 percent confidence that they will move forward.
The address comes amid historic political changes since Donald Trump won the US presidential election on November 5, marking his return to office after serving a non-consecutive term. Trump’s victory was decisive, sweeping more than 300 electoral votes, all seven battleground states and securing the popular vote.
Celebrating his victory, Trump said, “America’s future will be bigger, better, bolder, richer, safer and stronger than ever before. God bless you, and God bless America.”